“Bigger than any other personal records”: Edmonton Oilers captain Leon Draisaitl prioritizes the team over himself.
In a sport where personal accolades and records are often seen as the pinnacle of achievement, Leon Draisaitl, the captain of the Edmonton Oilers, stands out as a rare figure in the world of professional hockey. The German-born forward, who has risen to become one of the top players in the National Hockey League (NHL), has consistently made it clear that, for him, team success far outweighs any individual milestone. Despite his numerous personal records, including winning the Hart Trophy as the NHL’s Most Valuable Player and becoming one of the league’s top point producers, Draisaitl’s ultimate goal remains to win the Stanley Cup, a goal he has expressed time and again, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the team over his own personal achievements.
Early Career and Rising to Stardom
Leon Draisaitl was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers with the third overall pick in the 2014 NHL Draft, following an impressive junior career with the Prince Albert Raiders and the Kelowna Rockets in the Western Hockey League (WHL). From the moment he entered the NHL, it was clear that Draisaitl had a remarkable combination of size, skill, and vision on the ice. His ability to read the game and make plays in tight spaces quickly earned him a spot as a cornerstone of the Oilers’ future.
Draisaitl’s early years in Edmonton saw him form a dynamic partnership with fellow superstar Connor McDavid, and the duo became one of the most feared combinations in the league. Draisaitl’s rise to prominence was marked by his ability to consistently put up points, culminating in a breakout season during the 2019-2020 campaign, where he won the Hart Trophy as the league’s most valuable player, alongside the Ted Lindsay Award, given to the league’s most outstanding player as voted by the players themselves.
However, despite achieving such personal success, Draisaitl’s priorities were always clear: the team’s success mattered more than any individual recognition. Even as he earned recognition for his stellar play, Draisaitl’s focus remained on one thing: bringing a championship to Edmonton.
Team Over Self: The Ultimate Mindset
One of the most striking aspects of Draisaitl’s character is his insistence that winning the Stanley Cup supersedes any personal achievement. He has been vocal in his desire to see the Oilers reach the pinnacle of hockey. “I want to win the Cup with this team, more than anything,” Draisaitl said in numerous interviews over the years. His desire for team success is not just a passing statement; it’s a deeply ingrained mindset that permeates every aspect of his game.
In interviews and press conferences, Draisaitl is often asked about his remarkable individual achievements, but he has consistently deflected attention from himself, choosing instead to highlight the importance of his teammates. “As much as winning individual awards is nice, at the end of the day, it’s all about winning together,” he remarked after winning the Hart Trophy. Draisaitl has repeatedly stated that while personal accolades are rewarding, they pale in comparison to the feeling of winning as a team.
This humble approach stands in stark contrast to the typical trajectory of a player who might be motivated by personal glory. It also underscores Draisaitl’s leadership style. As captain of the Oilers, he leads by example, not just with his on-ice performance but with his attitude off the ice as well. Draisaitl’s leadership is built on fostering a team-first mentality, making sure his teammates feel valued and respected. He is not the type of leader who seeks the spotlight for himself; rather, he brings out the best in his teammates, encouraging them to share the load and find success as a group.
Draisaitl’s unwavering commitment to the team-first mindset is reflected in his play on the ice. While he is known for his offensive prowess, particularly his ability to score goals and generate assists, he also places great importance on playing a responsible two-way game. Draisaitl understands that winning championships requires contributions from all facets of the game, not just offensive production. His defensive play, often underappreciated, demonstrates his dedication to the team’s success, as he works tirelessly to ensure that the Oilers are not just a potent offensive unit but a well-rounded team capable of competing for a championship.
The Pain of Close Calls: The 2023 Playoff Run
In recent years, the Oilers have come agonizingly close to achieving their goal of winning the Stanley Cup, particularly in the 2023 playoffs. That year, the team made a deep run into the postseason, propelled by the combined brilliance of Draisaitl and McDavid. Draisaitl had another remarkable playoff performance, showcasing his elite scoring ability and making a significant impact on every shift. Yet, despite his individual success, the pain of falling short weighed heavily on him.
After the Oilers were eliminated in the Western Conference Finals by the Vegas Golden Knights, Draisaitl was visibly disappointed, but his focus remained on the team’s collective journey. “It hurts because we were so close, but this is a group that has so much potential,” Draisaitl said in the aftermath of the defeat. “We just have to keep going. Our time will come.”
Despite his frustration, Draisaitl’s words were a reflection of his resolve. He wasn’t pointing fingers or discussing personal disappointments; instead, he was emphasizing the need for the team to stay together and keep working toward the ultimate goal. This kind of leadership speaks volumes about Draisaitl’s character and his prioritization of the team over any personal gains or recognition.
The Importance of Leadership
Draisaitl’s leadership extends beyond just his words. His work ethic on the ice is a key component of his influence in the locker room. He is not one to take shortcuts or shy away from responsibility, and his dedication to the game is evident in every practice, every shift, and every game. His work ethic has been noted by his coaches and teammates, with many highlighting his consistency and approach to preparation as an example for others to follow.
Under Draisaitl’s leadership, the Oilers have become a more resilient team, one that has fought through adversity and learned how to compete at the highest level. Draisaitl’s presence has had a significant impact on the culture of the team, helping to foster an environment where each player is encouraged to push themselves for the collective good. It’s no surprise that his teammates have often praised him for his leadership, noting that he leads not through vocal commands, but through his actions and his ability to elevate the play of those around him.
A Legacy Beyond the Records
As Draisaitl continues to chase the elusive Stanley Cup, his legacy will likely be defined not just by his personal statistics, which are already remarkable, but by the impact he has had on his team. His ability to remain grounded, humble, and focused on the bigger picture sets him apart from many of his peers in a sport often dominated by individual achievements. Draisaitl understands that his ultimate legacy will not be defined by trophies and accolades, but by the success of his team and the joy of winning together.
In the end, Draisaitl’s journey is a reminder that the pursuit of team success can often be more rewarding than any individual glory. His focus on the bigger picture and his willingness to put the team first, even in the face of personal achievement, are qualities that not only make him a great player but a great leader. As the Edmonton Oilers continue to compete for the ultimate prize, Draisaitl’s example will undoubtedly serve as a guiding light for his teammates, inspiring them to prioritize the team over self and work toward the shared goal of winning a Stanley Cup.
For Leon Draisaitl, bigger than any other personal records is the chance to lift the Stanley Cup with the Edmonton Oilers—a goal that continues to drive him, and one that will define his legacy in the NHL for years to come.
